Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente announced his 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup on Monday, making history by excluding Real Madrid players entirely for the first time.
The selection heavily favors domestic champions Barcelona, who have eight representatives in the final roster.
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The omission of Real Madrid stars has stunned the capital city, as reported by Goal.
Notable absentees include defender Dean Huijsen and veteran Dani Carvajal, who recently returned to fitness.
Striker Alvaro Morata, who captained Spain to victory at Euro 2024, was also left out alongside Atletico Madrid defender Robin Le Normand.
According to Sportbible, Huijsen expressed dissatisfaction before the announcement by sharing his inclusion in the Sofascore team of the season on Instagram.
The 21-year-old center-back registered a higher statistical rating than his compatriots Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia, both of whom secured spots in the squad.
Barcelona midfielders Gavi and Pedri join Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, Joan Garcia, and Lamine Yamal on the plane to North America.
Yamal remains a major doubt for the opening match, while his club teammate Fermin Lopez was ruled out after fracturing a metatarsal against Real Betis.
De la Fuente expressed immense confidence in his squad, which features Premier League talent like Rodri, David Raya, Martin Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino.
The 64-year-old coach feels his team is fully prepared to challenge for the title alongside other global football powerhouses.
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